How Does Ozempic Affect Your Period? I Asked an OB/GYN

There are lots of things that can affect your menstrual cycle, from stress and hormonal issues to certain medications. Does that include GLP-1 medications like Ozempic? I checked in with board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Somi Javaid, MD, to learn more about the potential impact Ozempic and similar medications can have on the duration of your period, the heaviness of your flow and more.

Dr. Somi Javaid, MD, is a board-certified OB/GYN, a leading women’s sexual health and menopause advocate and the founder of HerMD, a comprehensive women’s health practice revolutionizing the future of women’s healthcare. With a mission to make women's healthcare exceptional, Dr. Javaid has dedicated herself to educating, advocating for and empowering patients to take control of their health concerns. Dr. Javaid’s research contributions include numerous published research posters presented at major medical conferences, reflecting her ongoing commitment to advancing the science and data of women’s healthcare, and her expertise and insights have been featured in top publications and on national television.

Dr. Javaid tells me that GLP-1 medications can influence menstrual cycles, both directly and indirectly. The primary impact, she explains, comes through rapid weight loss, which can affect hormonal balance and menstrual regularity. Some of these changes can include irregular periods, lighter or heavier flows or changes in cycle length. “This is because adipose tissue [body fat] plays a crucial role in hormone production and regulation, particularly estrogen,” she says. “While menstrual changes are not listed as a primary side effect of GLP-1 medications, the rapid weight loss these medications can induce may affect hormonal balance. This is similar to what we see with other forms of significant weight loss, where changes in body composition can influence the menstrual cycle.”

I also asked if there are any gynecological issues that would prevent a doctor from prescribing a GLP-1 medication for weight loss. Dr. Javaid says that while GLP-1 medications can be prescribed to many patients, certain gynecological conditions require careful consideration. “The key contraindications are pregnancy and personal/family history of medullary thyroid carcinoma,” she notes. (Adding that even if you’re not pregnant, it's essential that reliable contraception should be used while on these medications.) “From a gynecological perspective, while active pregnancy is a clear contraindication, most gynecological conditions don't automatically disqualify someone from GLP-1 use.” However, she stresses that patients with severe endometriosis or other conditions affecting the digestive system should have detailed discussions with their healthcare providers. “Patients with a history of certain endocrine disorders, severe eating disorders or those who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss these factors with their healthcare provider.”

If you do experience changes to your menstruation while on a GLP-1, Dr. Javaid recommends that you:

• Document your cycle changes in detail (she says that healthcare providers typically recommend keeping a detailed menstrual diary including flow changes, cycle duration, pain and any associated symptoms)
• Contact your healthcare provider for evaluation
• Don't stop the medication without consulting your doctor

Once you’ve notified your healthcare providers of any changes that might occur, they will likely take the following steps to determine if changes are related to the medication, weight loss or other factors.

• Review your menstrual history
• Review medical history
• Consider hormonal or other lab testing if needed
• Potentially adjust medication dosing
• Monitor for any other related symptoms
• May recommend cycle tracking or additional supportive measures

Finally, if you’re wondering if GLP-1 medications can be helpful for folks who deal with PCOS, Dr. Javaid tells me that while GLP-1s are not currently FDA-approved specifically for PCOS treatment, they may be prescribed off-label as part of a comprehensive PCOS management plan. “GLP-1 medications can potentially help with PCOS symptoms, particularly for patients who also struggle with weight management,” she says. “Research has shown promising results for GLP-1 medications in PCOS patients, particularly in addressing insulin resistance, which affects approximately 70 percent of women with PCOS. The metabolic benefits of these medications can create a positive cascade effect on various PCOS symptoms.” Dr. Javaid has personally seen incredible benefits with GLP-1 medications and PCOS patients, so it’s worth consulting your healthcare provider to find out if this is a path worth exploring for you.